Backpacker numbers to Fiji on the rise

More and more backpackers are travelling to Fiji on a gap year

Fiji used to be one of the most popular places to visit on a gap year, but due to the global recession those numbers have been down for the past couple of years. However, statistics suggest that the backpacker industry is on the rise and Fiji is once again as popular as ever.

Last year, travellers visiting and staying in backpacker hostels made up 30% of the total tourist arrivals into the country.

The backpacker sector attracted an impressive estimated figure of more than 20,000 of last year's total tourist arrivals.

Tui Kabu, president of the Fiji Independent Traveller Backpackers Association, spoke at the Fiji Independent Traveller Backpackers Industry Forum 2012: "We represent up to 30% of our total arrivals and in terms of the money generated from this we had a little bit more than 30% of the total tourism earnings last year.

"This is because backpackers tend to spend more money and stay longer at the backpacking resorts."

Fiji is popular among backpackers as a beach destination and a little down time when coming from Australia and New Zealand.

Marcus Sherifi, spokesperson at gapyear.com, said: "It's no surprise that the number of backpackers travelling to Fiji is on the rise; it's something that we assumed would happen!

"Fiji is such a beautiful destination and there's so much to see and do on a gap year. If you're heading all the way to Australia or New Zealand, then make sure you see Fiji too!"

Are you planning on going to Fiji on your gap year? If so, what are you doing?

If you're thinking of heading to Fiji then head to our Fiji country section for more advice and information.